Roadmap for Canadian Vaccination in Pregnancy Research Highlights Key Areas for Investigation

Strategic Insights -

A recent study, conducted by researchers from the University of British Columbia, has identified key areas of research priority for vaccination in pregnancy in Canada. Despite the growing body of evidence supporting the benefits of vaccination during pregnancy, no national research agenda has been established to guide funding and research in this area. The study, which involved a comprehensive analysis of existing research and input from immunization stakeholders, identified priorities for research in pregnancy, including the need for vaccine trials and immunologic studies for SARS-CoV-2, cytomegalovirus (CMV), group B streptococcus (GBS), and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Key Takeaways:

  • The study identified a lack of national research agenda in Canada to guide funding and research on vaccination in pregnancy, despite the growing body of evidence supporting its benefits.
  • The research priorities identified in the study include vaccine trials and immunologic studies for SARS-CoV-2, CMV, GBS, and RSV.
  • The study also identified a need for research into the attitudes of pregnant women and other pregnant people, prenatal care providers, and frontline immunization providers toward vaccination during pregnancy.
  • The researchers recommend focusing vaccination in pregnancy research toward high-impact areas, including CMV, GBS, and RSV.
  • The study involved a comprehensive analysis of existing research and input from immunization stakeholders, including researchers, policymakers, frontline immunizers, and research funders.
  • The research was conducted by a team of researchers from the University of British Columbia, led by Elisabeth McClymont.

Statistics:

  • 39 pertussis-related research gaps and priorities were identified during the initial workshop and survey (2017-18).
  • A cross-sectional survey was conducted across eight diseases and seven research approaches in 2022.
  • Three expert workshops were held in 2023, focusing on three priority areas: CMV, GBS, and RSV.
  • The research identified a need for 17 new research trials and studies to address knowledge gaps in vaccination in pregnancy.

Sources:

  • Knowledge gaps and research priorities regarding vaccination in pregnancy: A Canadian perspective from the prevention of infections in the maternal-infant dyad (PRIMED) consortium. Vaccine, 2025;62:127594.
  • University of British Columbia, Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • Elsevier Sci Ltd, publisher of the journal Vaccine.